Marilyn W. Downing, 86 of Gloucester, MA previously Melrose, MA and Naples, FL, passed away peacefully at home with her family by her side.

She was born August 13, 1937 in Delphos, OH to the late Francis and Fern (Fosnaught) Weisgerber. Marilyns' twin sister Carolyn Mueller preceded her in death by 6 days. They are survived by their younger sister Ann Hetzel.

Marilyn was the loving and devoted wife of the late Fred Downing for over 50 years. Beloved mother to Matthew (Sarah) Downing of Middleton, Kara (Paul) Morrissey of Melrose, and Kristen (Mark) Liteplo of Reading. Cherished Nana to Matthew, Carolyn, Jack, Andrew, Maya, Maura and Michael.

Marilyn was a registered nurse who spent most of her career working as the school nurse at Melrose Junior and then Senior High Schools. Besides her keen sense of style and love for shopping, she took up golfing in retirement where she hit 2 hole in ones while living in Naples, FL. Marilyn was also an avid reader and enjoyed a good Hallmark movie or a spirited political debate. However, there was nothing that made her happier than being with her family. She absolutely adored her 7 grandchildren and loved summer weekends when everyone would come to Wingaersheek Beach, as long as you rinsed the sand off your feet before entering the house.

Visitation will be at the Gately Funeral Home in Melrose from 4:00 – 7:00pm on Monday, April 1.

Donations in her memory can be made to Saint Vincent de Paul, 18 Canton St., Stoughton, MA 02072 or Cure Alzheimer's Fund, 34 Washington St, Suite 310, Wellesley Hills, MA 02481